Step back in time along the archaic streets of Castletown, where a striking Viking fortress stands strong and salt-kissed air from the harbour surrounds you. Spend your days uncovering the island's rich history and popular attractions before taking refuge in a cosy eatery for a fulfilling dining experience. 

Considered one of the most ancient towns in the British Isles, with records tracing back to 1090, this borough remained the ‘ancient capital’ of the island from 1265 to 1869 when the island's government began moving its residence to a neighbouring town, Douglas.

Things to do
Spend your afternoons strolling through Castletown's cobbled streets and indulge in the island's riveting past whilst exploring its well-preserved historical attractions.

Castle Rushen

No visit to the island is complete without a visit to this 800-year-old Viking castle. Rooted in deep history, Castle Rushen's dominating presence inspired the very town it towered over: Castletown. Originally built for a Norse King to gain control of the Silverburn River, the castle served as a Victorian prison, a lookout to protect the island during the English Civil Wars, governmental offices, and even a royal residence. Considered one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe, the fortress also served as the island's treasury for hundreds of years, producing the Manx currency, ‘mint’.

With a fully accessible ground floor, opening times are seasonal, ranging from the end of March to the beginning of November.

The Old House of Keys

Tynwald, the world's oldest and ongoing parliament dating back to the 9th century, once lodged within the comforts of The House of Keys before their move to Douglas in the late 1860s. Following its abandonment, Manx National Heritage began managing the historical venue in the early 2000s, restoring its interior as if time had never passed since the last years of the parliament's residency. Its restoration is more specifically focussed to portray the year of 1866, a pivotal year in Manx history with the passing of the ‘House of Keys election bill’, first introducing democratic elections to all male landowners.

Nautical Museum

Also managed by Manx National Heritage, dive into the maritime history of Castletown's once thriving fishing port and trading hub. The museum is situated within the 1789 boathouse of Captain George Quayle, a key Manx historical figure, built for the world's first and oldest surviving yacht ‘the Peggy’. With the boat's significant communal value to the area's maritime heritage, the Quayle family estate handed the property over to the Manx Museum and National Trust in 1942, opening the museum's doors in 1951.

Castletown Beach

Escape for a moment's solitude along Castletown’s captivating stretch of shingle and rock after an adventurous day exploring its awe-inspiring attractions. Relax and unwind on the town's mesmerising waterside to the whisper of blissful gentle waves, or grab a paddleboard to explore the nearby enchanting sea caves whilst soaking in the serene beauty of the ancient capital from ashore. Despite its proximity to Castletown, dogs are prohibited from entering the beach with an absence of lifeguard cover.

*Please make yourself familiar with rip-currents before entering the water.

Isle of Man Steam Railway

Visiting Castletown for the day or eager to explore more attractions dotted around the island? The Isle of Man’s Steam Railway, tracking from Port Erin to Douglas, passes through the ancient capital, a perfect way to stop by attractions further afield. With the 150-year-old carriages and steam tracks covering fifteen miles in the south of the island, enjoy the serene Manx coastal views from the comfort of the steam railway. Find yourself hopping off this antiquated railway and visit the Port Erin Railway Museum to learn more about this mode of transport's significance to island life. Plan your journey to Castletown with the Steam Railways official timetable.

Planning to voyage to the northern parts of the island? Discover more train attractions in this railway lovers' paradise and stop by an array of must-see attractions along the way.

Eateries
Indulge your palate with the best eateries Castletown has to offer. From dining in archaic buildings to enriching modern delights, the ancient capital of Man has a plethora of flavours waiting to be savoured.

The Garrison

5 Castle Street, Castletown, IM9 1LF

Revisit the past in Castletown's oldest restaurant. Built centuries ago in the 1640s, the Garrison preserves this very reminiscence locals crave, added with a sprinkle of modernism that caters to all. From their hearty locally sourced steaks and classic Manx queenies, to chicken schnitzels and smash burgers, this timeless eatery possesses family-favourite dishes as well as a seasonal, rotating menu suited to all tastes. With a veggie option available, the full English is a favourite here year round.

Stanleys

Stanley House, Castle Street, Castletown, IM9 1LF

Named in honour of the Stanley family, who ruled the island for hundreds of years, Stanley's bistro-style eatery sits directly opposite Castle Rushen's awe-inspiring doors. With an extensive menu, the hardest decision of the day will be picking from the mouth-watering dishes on offer. Whether you’d rather mix it up and try a Stanley’s Way queenie smothered in chorizo, garlic and chilli, or a Stan’s french toast for those delightful early mornings, Stanley's provides an array of options from their breakfast, lunch, and evening menus alongside their revitalising alcoholic beverages and delicious sweet treats options.

Smoky Sam’s Barbeque

Farrants Way, Castletown, IM9 1NR

Indulge in anything barbequed at Smoky Sam's. With a captivating open fire preparing the likes of juicy buffalo wings, brisket mac ‘n’ cheese, Texan dirty fries, and sirloin steak, these American-style dishes are slow-cooked to perfection. Let Smoky Sam’s appetising dishes linger on your taste buds long after your last bite with a refreshing beverage from their tempting drinks menu, carefully selected to complement every taste. Hungry for more? Bring these flavours home with their takeaway option, or purchase their locally made sauces for your home BBQ.

Kizuna

Harbour Mews, Parliament Square, Castletown, IM9 1LA.

Translating to ‘bond’ in Japanese, this Asian eatery delivers glorious dishes from the expertise of Tokyo-trained chefs putting on an astounding show from their open kitchen. Take your palate on an adventure with Kizuna's authentic flavours. From mouth-watering gyozas, sushi, and salmon rolls to chicken teriyaki and vegetable tempura, a mix of small and hot plates are ready to hand-pick.

Unearthed the ancient streets of Castletown? Head on over to the island’s vibrant capital to taste your way around Douglas’s best restaurants.

Annual festivals
Immerse yourself in Manx cultural festivities and watch the ancient town’s traditions come to life.

World Tin Bath Championships

Visiting in the summer months? Expect to be bewildered with the sight of one hundred people in fancy dress vigorously paddling towards the finish line in handmade extravagant tin bathtubs. Castletown's Real Ale Drinkers Society began this unique contest back in 1971, raising more than £200,000 for local charities since the races began. Over the years, the event has expanded into two new spectacles, with the ‘man-powered flight attempt’ and the ‘snake race’, a group of 6 attempting to complete the 400m course using only inflatable rings.

The Castletown Festival

Celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, the Castletown Festival hosts numerous events across the summer months. From the popular Confetti Carnival with enjoyable live entertainment to the Picnic in the Park Festival hosting the unique annual frog racing competition: the frog frolic, this voluntary-led community certainly keeps the local spirit alive.

Join in the fun and celebrate more Manx festivals hosted across the island.

Feeling inspired to visit the ancient capital of Man? Discover our collection of beautiful cottages in Castletown.